Hailey’s lips curled into a smile. “I didn’t want to disturb you, so I’ve been hanging out with Declan at school.” Her words made Pamela smile.

Just then, Oscar showed up, and Hailey left the room. After settling into Oscar’s office, Oscar handed Hailey a report and said, “Ms. Halley, the patient’s report is out.”

“How is it?” Hailey asked.

Shaking his head, Oscar announced, “The patient has late-stage cancer.”

Stunned, Hailey questioned, “Late-stage cancer? Are you sure? Mrs. Zamora has been fine all this while.”

“I’m sure. The patient must have been diagnosed a few years ago. She knew about it, but she never received any treatment or told anyone.”

“And now, the cancer has spread to her heart and brain. She only has two months left.”

Hailey slumped into the chair. She never expected Pamela to have only two months left to live. She couldn’t help but wonder why Pamela never told anyone or sought treatment. Even worse, her children had no idea.

Nicole Walsh and Aileen sat beside Pamela. Aileen poured a glass of water and offered it.

“Have some water, Mom.”

Leaning against the bedhead, Pamela took a sip and said, “Thank you so much, Ms. Walsh.”

Nicole held Pamela’s hand. “There’s no need. We’ve been neighbors for a long time. I know it hasn’t been easy raising two children alone.”

Glancing at her teenage daughter, Pamela said, “We managed, no matter how tough it was. It’s going to be tough on Declan now that he’s an adult.” Nicole sighed. “Declan’s a strong and outstanding man, just like his father. He’s grown into a great man.”

At the mention of Declan’s father, Pamela’s eyes reddened. Nicole immediately realized she had misspoken. Declan’s father had always been the Zamoras’ sacred pain; a mere mention of him reopened emotional wounds.

In fact, Pamela hadn’t been born blind. She lost her sight from crying excessively after losing her husband.

Nicole quickly changed the subject, commenting, “That girl, Hailey, is really pretty. She has a small face, fair skin, and bright eyes. Even her figure is great. I’ve never seen such a pretty girl before. She’s definitely a city girl.”

Pamela beamed. “Is that so? Actually, I could tell she’s a sweet and beautiful girl just by how she talks.”

Smiling proudly, Aileen chimed in, “Mom, Hailey is really pretty.”

Nicole added, “I think she’s well-educated too, since she goes to the same university as Declan. Most importantly, I have a feeling she’s from a prominent family with connections. She got you transferred to this hospital with just one call. Besides, that doctor who examined you? I’ve seen him on television before. He’s a very skilled doctor.”

“Is she Declan’s girlfriend? I’m happy for him. He’s found himself such a good girlfriend.”

Pamela had been listening silently until she heard that statement. “You mustn’t make such claims. It could ruin that young lady’s reputation.”

“I’m sure Hailey is pursued by many guys. Besides, Declan isn’t that lucky to date someone like her. He didn’t tell me he’s dating anyone.”

Patting Pamela’s hand, Nicole said, “I know what you mean, but Declan’s grown up now. He’s got to find a partner someday. Don’t you want him to get married and have children? He’ll be alone forever if he doesn’t.”

Pamela said nothing, while Aileen chirped naively, “Declan won’t be alone. He still has me.”